Report recognises strategic planning

The Far South Coast Council has demonstrated its responsibility in the management of the community’s assets through seeking independent reviews and careful strategic planning.

An independent asset and financial sustainability review was commissioned in 2009 to assess the condition and backlog of infrastructure, the scale and scope of services currently provided, and to make recommendations for a suitable financial plan.

Council then analysed the reports and recommendations to develop appropriate scenarios that resulted in the NSW Treasury Corporation noting their strong financial performance.

Responding to the Council’s management of its assets, investments and financial strategies, the NSW Treasury Corporation’s outlook for the Bega Valley Shire shows the Council rising from the top 34 NSW councils for this year to a top 13 placing within three years.

Mayor Bill Taylor welcomed the news but he also noted the importance of continuous strategic planning and investment.

“This is great news for the shire. It demonstrates that Council takes very seriously the responsibility we have of managing the community’s assets.“It’s only through a lot of hard work and careful strategic planning that Council is in this position.

“Although we have been given a favorable ranking in the Treasury report, we must bear in mind that currently we maintain assets to the value of $1.4 billion.“We are able to stand on this sound financial footing through careful consideration of asset management, investments, rationalisation and procurement.“It is through consideration of future challenges and opportunities that this Council has come to where it is today.”